Common Yabbie

Images ©:

Common Yabbie - Alan Henderson (Minibeast Wildlife) | Common Yabbie - Bob Winters

Cherax destructor

Total body length up to 16 cm. Upper shell (carapace) length 7 cm. Broad, spade-like claws. Body generally pale to dark brown in colour.

Details
Type
Invertebrate
Group
Animals
Crustacean
Biology

Nocturnal. Digs deep burrows in the soil, including in levee banks and dam walls. Survives over summer and long droughts in their burrows. Can survive in poor water quality. Prolific breeders when conditions are suitable. Females look after hatchlings for several weeks in a brood chamber under their tail. Life span of 5-7 years.
Distinctive Markings

Smooth exoskeleton (outer shell).